My name is Anael Alejo, and I’m a 12-year-old amateur boxer from the Imperial Valley.

This June, I earned the opportunity to compete at the 2026 USA Boxing Junior Olympics in Wichita, Kansas. This isn’t a vacation or a recreational trip. This is a national championship tournament where some of the best young boxers in the country come together to compete.

For years, I’ve dedicated myself to this sport. While most kids are sleeping in, I’m up before sunrise running, training, and working to become the best athlete I can be. Every day is a combination of roadwork, strength and conditioning, boxing drills, sparring, and endless hours in the gym.

My hard work has helped me become a State Silver Gloves Champion, Regional Silver Gloves Champion, Junior Olympics Silver Medalist, and an International Champion. None of those accomplishments came easy. They were earned one round, one workout, and one sacrifice at a time.

Now I’ve qualified for another opportunity to compete on the national stage, but getting there is becoming our biggest challenge.

The cost of travel, lodging, meals, registration fees, and transportation for Wichita adds up quickly. As a family, we’re doing everything we can to make this trip happen, but we still need help.

Every dollar donated will go directly toward my Junior Olympics expenses and help make sure I can step into that ring and represent my family, my coaches, my supporters, and the entire Imperial Valley.

If you’re a local business, this is also an opportunity to support a dedicated young athlete who is proudly representing our community on a national level. Female boxing continues to grow, and opportunities like this help young athletes chase their dreams and inspire others to do the same.

Whether you can donate $5, $25, $100, or simply share this fundraiser, every bit of support brings me one step closer to Wichita.

Thank you for believing in me and being part of this journey.

See you in Wichita.

— Anael Alejo